Join Durrell’s “Founder’s Trek”

Durrell is inviting their supporters to join them for the Founder’s Trek to celebrate what would be the 100th birthday of their visionary founder, Gerald Durrell. This once-in-a-lifetime expedition invites 20 daring and dedicated individuals to embark on a 60km trek from Gerald’s birthplace in West Bengal. They then head to Assam, where Durrell is working to save the world’s smallest pig, the elusive pygmy hog.

From Saturday 22 March to Wednesday 2 April 2025, participants will experience an unforgettable journey through the majestic landscapes of India. Organised by award-winning adventure travel experts, Tribal Tracks, the trek will feature hiking and camping with breathtaking views of the world’s third-highest mountain, Kanchenjunga. Trekkers will also gain unique, behind-the-scenes insights into Durrell’s vital conservation work, including the chance to meet the endangered pygmy hog and the dedicated team working to protect it.

Commenting on this unique opportunity, Rebecca Brewer, CEO (Interim) of Durrell, says: “We would love our supporters to join us in commemorating Gerald Durrell’s centenary year with this remarkable expedition, which is also the first trek of this kind to be organised by the Trust. Why not take on the ultimate fundraising challenge and witness firsthand the legacy of our incredible founder in the stunning landscapes of Northeast India. Trekkers will have the opportunity to experience for themselves what goes into saving the pygmy hog from extinction, and learn about the other incredible wildlife, such as tigers and rhinos, benefitting from the restoration of the precious grassland habitat.”

Gaynor Hall, Director and Co-founder of Tribal Tracks, commented on this one-of-a-kind adventure:

“This is an incredible journey to the Northeast of India. We love the contrasting elements, from trekking at altitude through magnolia forests and across suspension bridges in the shadow of Kanchenjunga, to witnessing the Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme in Assam. You will truly understand the dedication of the team saving this endangered species, witnessing both the breeding programme in Guwahati and the release sites in Manas National Park.”

Due to limited places, prospective participants must apply by Sunday 30 June 2024. A place on the trek costs £2,935 per person, and all participants are encouraged to fundraise a minimum of £2,500 to support Durrell’s work to save species from extinction. Emissions from the trip will be balanced through Durrell’s Rewild Carbon programme.